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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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How To Sleep Well Without The Medicine, Lorazepam?

I have been taking Lorazepam for 19 years. every evening to sleep. I have no hangover in the morning or grogginess. However, I would not like to be dependent upon them. If I run out or misplace my prescription, I can t sleep. i went to Betty Ford for 30 days and they could NOT detox me from Lorazepam. How can I get off this medication?
Tue, 14 Oct 2014
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Psychiatrist,  's  Response
Hello,
There are two ways to detox from lorazepam dependence.
First is to reduce the dose gradually over weeks.
Second is you start taking a longer acting sedative like valium in equivalent doses (10mg valium=2mg lorazepam). Then gradually reduce valium.
Please do not completely stop lorazepam at once. this may cause marked anxiety and even fits in severe cases.
Thanks.
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How To Sleep Well Without The Medicine, Lorazepam?

Hello, There are two ways to detox from lorazepam dependence. First is to reduce the dose gradually over weeks. Second is you start taking a longer acting sedative like valium in equivalent doses (10mg valium=2mg lorazepam). Then gradually reduce valium. Please do not completely stop lorazepam at once. this may cause marked anxiety and even fits in severe cases. Thanks.